Destigmatizing Mental Health: Lessons from the Prophets & Ahl al-Bayt (pbut)

May 13, 2025

In many of our communities, mental health is often ignored or misunderstood, leaving those who struggle to do so on their own. When we look at the Quran and Hadith literature, it becomes clear that mental and emotional hardship is not a modern problem; our Prophets and Imams (pbut) faced intense challenges of their own. What are some lessons from Islamic tradition that destigmatize mental health struggles?

1. It is normal to be impacted by loss and grief. 

Islam acknowledges the complexities of the human experience, including emotional and psychological struggles. The Quran recounts the story of Prophet Yaqub (p), who was overcome with grief upon the disappearance of his son, Prophet Yusuf (p). God describes his sorrow during this long period of separation: “And he turned away from them and said, ‘Oh my sorrow over Yusuf,’ and his eyes became white from grief, for he was [of that] a suppressor” (12:84).

Prophet Yaqub’s (p) reaction reflects that even the most pious individuals can feel profound emotional pain. This acknowledgment in the Quran validates the struggles of those who endure profound losses.

2. The community and society can ease your burden or compound your struggles. 

In the tenth year of his prophethood, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh&hp) experienced immense loss when both Lady Khadija (p) and his uncle and protector Abu Talib (p) passed away. Compounding this grief, the Prophet (pbuh&hp) and his followers faced immense economic and social pressure, ridicule, and mistreatment at the hands of the people of Makkah, who continued to reject his message. And so, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh&hp) himself endured what he called ‘Ām al-Ḥuzn‘ or the ‘Year of Sorrow.’ 

But the Prophet (pbuh) was comforted by both his trust in God as well as his faithful companions. Similarly, Imam Hussain (p), whose story we retell every Muharram, was surrounded by fiercely loyal companions. 

On the night of Ashura, the Imam (as) allowed him to leave, saying, “Beware! I strongly predict that the day of our confrontation with them will be tomorrow. Beware! I have given you permission to leave. You are all free to go. I do not and will not reproach anyone of you for doing so. This is a night whose darkness has covered you like a mounted camel. Therefore, take advantage of it and make your escapes” (Muqarram, Maqtal al-Husayn, p. 212). 

Not a single one of them left. And though small in number, they faced an army of thousands with bravery and one by one were martyred on the plains of Karbala in the way of God. 

Imam Hasan (p), on the other hand, had an army of anywhere between 12,000 to 100,000 men. But few had the same pure intentions and higher purpose as Imam Hussain’s companions. Many turned on him. As a result, Imam Hasan (p) did not prolong his war with Muawiayh, and instead forged a treaty to maintain unity and peace in the Ummah. Rather than relieve his burden, the community around Imam Hasan (p) limited him greatly, for there were not enough loyal companions to empower and support him in seeking justice. 

There is a profound lesson to be learned here: To the best of your ability, seek out the company of the people who bring you closer to God, for they will affirm, comfort, and uplift you in times of need. 

3. Life is full of ups and downs. 

It was Imam Ali (p) who wrote, “Remember that this life consists of two days – a day for you and a day against you, and that the world is a house (changing) authorities. Whatever in it is for you will come to you despite your weakness; and whatever in it turns against you cannot be brought back despite your strength” (Letter 72 to `Abdullah ibn al-`Abbas).

Your mental, emotional, and even spiritual state will fluctuate; that is normal. Imam Ali (p) teaches us here that the best way to deal with constant changes in our circumstances is to know and trust in God’s power and His plan. There are things beyond our control, and if we continue to overexert ourselves without asking for God’s help or being satisfied with His will, we risk burning out. We must be satisfied with doing the best we can and leaving the rest in God’s hands. 

What are some practical ways to destigmatize mental health in our own communities?

1. Pray for each other’s well-being. Making sincere dua for someone can go a long way. Pray that God eases the burden of those around you, and gives them strength, patience, and the tools they need to find peace and contentment. 
2. Curate safe spaces for sharing about mental health struggles. Designate time to check in on one another as a community, especially during times of collective crisis. Set norms that encourage vulnerability and confidentiality. 
3. Know where you can get help. Be proactive; know the resources that are available to you and your community if you ever need professional help. Make these resources accessible by posting them on social media, and in community spaces such as your local Islamic centers and Islamic schools.
4. If you are passionate, pursue a career in mental health. Our communities are in dire need of psychologists, therapists, psychiatrists, etc., who have an intimate understanding of the linguistic, cultural, and spiritual backgrounds of their patients.

By normalizing conversations about mental health and offering support, we can create a community that uplifts and empowers one another. Let us draw inspiration from Islamic history to destigmatize mental health and foster an environment of healing and hope.